Dental implants are artificial tooth roots used to replace missing teeth. They come in different types, each suited for specific needs. Here are the main categories.
Which Type of Dental Implants Is Right For Your Teeth?
1. Based on Placement in the Jawbone
A. Endosteal Implants (In-the-Bone)
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Most common type.
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Made of titanium (sometimes ceramic).
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Placed directly into the jawbone.
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Types:
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Screw-shaped (most popular).
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Cylinder-shaped.
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Blade-shaped (less common today).
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B. Subperiosteal Implants (On-the-Bone)
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Placed under the gum but above the jawbone.
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Used when the patient lacks enough bone for endosteal implants.
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Rarely used today (mostly in special cases).
2. Based on the Number of Teeth Replaced
A. Single-Tooth Implant
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Replaces one missing tooth (implant + crown).
B. Implant-Supported Bridge
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Replaces multiple missing teeth (2+ implants support a bridge).
C. All-on-4 / All-on-6 Implants
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Full-arch restoration (replaces all teeth in one jaw).
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Uses 4 or 6 implants to support a full denture.
D. Implant-Supported Dentures
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Removable dentures that snap onto implants (more stable than traditional dentures).
3. Based on Material
A. Titanium Implants
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Most widely used (biocompatible, durable).
B. Zirconia Implants
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Metal-free, hypoallergenic (good for patients with metal sensitivities).
4. Based on Procedure Timing
A. Immediate Load Implants (Same-Day Implants)
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Temporary crown placed right after implant surgery.
B. Delayed Load Implants (Traditional Two-Stage Implants)
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Healing period (3-6 months) before attaching the crown.
C. Mini Dental Implants (MDIs)
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Smaller in diameter, used for stabilizing dentures or in narrow bone areas.
Which Type is Best for You?
The best dental implant depends on:
✔ Bone density (If bone loss exists, a bone graft may be needed).
✔ Number of missing teeth.
✔ Budget (Zirconia is usually more expensive than titanium).
✔ Health conditions (e.g., metal allergies).
Call us at Willow Dental Care Vancouver, our dentists will help you to choose the best type of dental implants for your teeth.
